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JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THiS
$prtg; gfomtal tetotimt
OF THE
Protestant Episcopal Church,
IN THE
DIOCESE OF GEORGIA,
I*ttr m djmsi Clrartlj, Ptecott/towmmmg Ptag 10, 1855.
MACON, OA.,
PRINTED BY B. F. GRIFFIN;
1655,
TjIST of the clergy
of the
«#>
The Right Rev. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, Jr., D. T)., Bishop of the
Diocese, and Rector of Christ Church, Savannah.
BARTOW, THEODORE B., Chaplain of the Naval Academy, An¬
napolis, Maryland.
BRAGG, SENECA G., Rector of St. Luke's Church, Montpelier,
post office, Macon.
BROWN, EDMUND P., Rector of Christ Church, St. Simon's and
St. David's, Glynn Co.
CLARK, GEO. H., Rector of St. John's Church, Savannah.
DALSELE, W. T. DICKINSON, Rector of Trinity Church, Colum¬
bus.
FIELDING, JOHN, Principal of College, Beaufort, S. C.
FORD, EDWARD E., D. D., Rector of St. Pauls Church, Augusta.
GEORGE, J. H., Rector of St. Paul's Church, Albany.
GENAGAN, W. P., Rector of Zion Church, Talbotton.
GIBSON, JAMES D.
HABERSHAM B. K, Rector of St. James Church, Marietta.
HARRISON, W. H., Rector the Church of the Atonement, Augusta.
HUNT, JOHN J., Residing in Marietta.
JOHNSON, RICHARD, Rector of St. Philip's Church, Atlanta.
KENNERLY, SHEROD W., Missionary to the Negroes on Savan¬
nah River.
LINEBAUGH, J. H,, Rector of Emanuel Church, Athens.
MACAULEY, GEO., Rector of St. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville.
MOWER, BENJ. F., Rector of Grace Church, Clarksville.
NEELY, JOHN, Principal of the Richmond Academy, Augusta.
PERDUE, WILLIAM J., Missionary of the Church of the Advent,
Madison.
PRYSE.
REES, H. K., Rector of Christ Church, Macon.
WHITE, GEORGE.
WILLIAMS, WILLIAM C., Missionary to the Negroes on tire
Ogeeohefe Rivtfr.
LIST OF LAY DELEGATES
OF THE
THIRTY THIRD ANNUAL CONVENTION
OF THE
DIOCESE OF GrEORGrlA.
Christ Church, Savannah-
St. PauVs Church, Augusta—
Christ Churchy Macon,-
R. R. CUYLER,
HON. J. M. BERRIEN,
GEO. A. GORDON.
* EDWARD F. CAMPBELL,
* g. Mclaughlin,
* BENJ. CONLEY.
L. N. WHITTLE,
SAMUEL T. BAILEY,
J. S. HUTTON.
Church of the Atonement, Augusta,-* R. H. GARDNER,
* J. W. CLARK,
A. H. SMITH.
Trinity Church, Columbus-
St. John's Church, Savannah,—
Emanuel Church, Athens,—
St. James' Church, Marietta—
St. Philip's Church, Atlanta—
Zion Church, Talbotton-
H. Y. MEIGS,
* DR. E. T TAYLOR,
* DANIEL GRIFFIN.
* GEO. H. JOHNSON,
* J. RICHARDSON,
W. W. LINCOLN.
JAMES CAMACK,
* R. D. MOORE,
* E. K. CLARKE.
THOMAS STEWARDSON,
* E. DENMEADE,
* J. M. SMITH.
* RICHARD PETERS,
WILLIAM JOHNSON,
Dr. T. S. DENNY.
* WM. H. SCOTT,
WILLIAM BACON,
J. BROWN.
St. Stephen's Church,Milledgeville-Wm. S. ROCKWELL,
JOHN S. THOMAS,
* H. C. TAFT.
* Not present at Convention.
JOURNAL
Christ Church, Macon, )
May 10th, 1855. f
This being the time and place appointed for holding the
Thirty Third Annual Convention of the Protestant Epis¬
copal Church in the Diocese of Georgia,
The order of Morning Prayer was read by the Rector of
Christ Church, and the Convention Sermon preached by the
Rev. Wm. H. Harrison, Rector of the Church of the
Atonement, Augusta, from Isaiah lii. 7.
After the Sermon the Convention was called to order by
the Bishop, and the roll of the Clergy being called, the fol¬
lowing answered to their names.
Rt. Rey. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, D. D., Bishop.
Rev. Geo. H. Clark, Rey. Wm. H. Harison,
Rev. Wm. J. D. Dalsele, Rey. Richard Johnson,
Rey. Edward E. Ford, D. D. Rev. Henry K. Rees,
Rev. James D. Gibson, Rev. Wm. C. Williams,
Rev. B. E. Habersham.
Certificates of the election of Lay Delegates were pre¬
sented, read and referred to the Rev. Messrs. Ford, John¬
son, and Clark, who reported the following in due form:—
Christ Church, Savannah,—Hon. J. M. Berrien, R. R.
Cuyler, Geo. A. Gordon.
St. PauVs Church, Augusta—E. F. Campbell, J. McLaugh¬
lin, Benj. Conley.
6
Christ Church. Macon—L. N. Whittle, Samuel T. Bailey,
J. S. Hutton.
Church of the Atonement, Augusta—R. H. Gardner, J. W.
Clark, A. H. Smith.
St. Johns' Church, Savannah—Geo. H. Johnston, J. Rich¬
ardson, W. W. Lincoln.
Emanuel Church, Athens—R. D. Moore, James Gamack,
E. K. Clarke.
James1 Churchy Marietta—Thomas Stewardson, E.
Denmeade, J. Morgin Smith.
St. Philip's Church, Atlanta—Richard Peters, William
Johnson, Dr. T. S. Denny.
Zion Church, Talbotton—Wm. H. Scott, Wm. Bacon, Jack
Brown.
St. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville—Wm. S. Rockwell,
John S. Thomas, H. C. Taffc.
Trinity Church, Columbus—H. V. Meigs, Dr. E. T. Tay¬
lor, Daniel Griffin.
The names being called the following delegates answered:
Hon. J. M. Berrien, R. R. Cuyler, Geo. Gordon, L. N. Whit¬
tle, Samuel T. Bailey, J. S. Hutton, H. V. Meigs, W. W.
Lincoln, James Camack, J. M. Smith, Wm. Johnson, T. S.
Denny, Thomas Stewardson.
There being a quorum of both Orders present, the Presi¬
dent declared the Convention duly organized.
The former Secretary, Rev. J. S. Shanklin, having re¬
moved from the Diocese, Rev. H. K. Rees, was elected Sec¬
retary of the Convention.
The Rules of Order of the last Convention were adopted
for the government of this body.
The Rev. Dr. E. E. Ford offered the following resolution,
which was adopted.
Resolved, That Clergymen of other Dioceses and candidates for Ho¬
ly Orders who may be present, be invited to seats in this Conven¬
tion.
7
Mr. Pinkerton, candidate from the Diocese ot Alabama,
Was presented and invited to a seat.
The following Committees were appointed by the Pres¬
ident.
On the State of the Church—Rev. Dr. E. E. Ford, Rev,
Messrs. S. G. Bragg, W. C. Williams.
On the Admission of New Parishes—Rev. R. Johnson,
Messrs. Cuyler and Stewardson.
On Unfinished Business—Rev. Messrs. Harison and Clark.
Mr. Gordon offered the following resolution, which was
laid on the table.
Resolved, That the next Convention of the Diocese shall commence
its sessions on the Thursday after the third Monday of February,
1856.
Mr. Gordon asked leave of absence, after the Morning
Session, which was granted.
After Prayer by the Bishop, Convention adjourned to the
time of public worship, Friday morning.
At night, Evening Prayer was read by Rev. Mr. Gibson,
and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Ford.
Friday Morning, May 11$, 1855.
Morning Prayer was read by the Rev. Mr. Macauley, and
a Sermon preached by the Rev Mr. Gibson.
After public worship the Convention was called to order
by the Bishop, and the roll called. Clergy present same as
yesterday, with the addition of Rev. S. G. Bragg, Rev. Geo.
Macauley.
Minutes of yesterday were read and confirmed.
Certificates of election of Lay Delegates were presented
8
from §t. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville, Zion Church, Tal'
botton. Also a certificate from the Rector of Christ Churchf
Savannah, appointing a delegate in place of one returned
home.
The above certificates were referred to the Committee on
Elections, who reported the following persons duly elected.
St. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville—John S. Thomas, W.
S. Rockwell, H. C. Taft.
Zion Church, Talbotton—Wm. H.Scott, Wm. Bacon, Jack
Brown, Esq.
Christ Church, Savannah—Robert Habersham, in place
of Geo. Gordon.
Mr. Habersham appeared and took his seat.
The Bishop then read his Annual Address.*
The Parochial Reports were read and referred to the Com¬
mittee on the State of the Church.
The Standing Committee of the Diocese presented the
following jeport, which was received.
The Standing Committee respectfully report the following official
acts, since the last Convention.
They have signified their non-assent to the consecration of Rev.
Henry W. Lee, D. D., at that time Bishop elect of the Diocese of
Iowa. This act on the part of the Committee was accompanied by
a respectful statement, made to the Diocese of Iowa, of the reasons
which led to it, and the present opportunity is gladly embraced, for
the purpose of stating that those reasons were derived from consider¬
ations of a legal and canonical nature, exclusively—and not in the re¬
motest degree derogatory, personally, to the estimable clergyman in.
question, since raised by the Church to the sacred office which he is
filling with such signal honor and usefulness.
We have signed the following Canonical testimonials, viz: Rec¬
ommending Mr. Samuel McClure, as a candidate for Holy Orders,
and the Rev. Henry K. Rees, Deacon, for Priest's Orders; also rec¬
ommending the Rev. Thomas M. Clark, D. D., for the Episcopate ®f
> '>■' "hiL mm '» «■ ' * ... |'1 ' | ■ 'ii|
* See Appendix.
9
the Diocese of Rhode Island, and the Rev. Horatio Totter, D. D., as
Provisional Bishop for the Diocese of New York.
Respectfully Submitted,
E. E. FORD,
President.
The Reports of the Treasurer of the Missionary Commit¬
tee, and of the Treasurer of the Diocese, were presented,
and referred to the Committee on Finance, composed of the
Messrs. Cuyler, Thomas and Smith.
Col. Bailey offered the following resolution, seconded by
Dr. Ford, which was adopted:
The Rev.' Joseph A. Shanklin, late pastor of Christ Church, in
this city, and Secretary of this Convention, having removed from the
Diocese, since our last meeting,
Resolved, That as a faithful officer he merited our thanks, and that
by his retirement Christ Church has lost a Pastor of singular fidelity,
the Diocese one of its brightest ornaments, the State an accomplish¬
ed scholar and Christian gentleman, and the community in which he
lived a citizen loved and respected by all good men, of whatever
sect.
The Rev. Mr. Clark offered resolutions expressing the
feelings of the Convention, in view of the death of the Rev.
Rufus M. White, which were referred to a Committee of
the following gentlemen;—the Rev. Messrs. Clark, John¬
son, "Williams. •
Mr. Lincoln offered the following resolution.
Resolved, That the next Convention of the Church be held in St.
John's Church, Savannah, commencing on Thursday following the
first Monday in May, 1856.
Moved, seconded, and carried, that the above resolution
lie on the table until to-morrow.
Rev. Mr. Harison offered the following, which was sec¬
onded by the Rev. Mr. Dalsele, and adopted.
Resolved, That a Committee of five be appointed by the chair, to
report such action as may be necessary by the Diocese, arising from
Canon XIV, General Convention 1853, Section 5, (pages 73 and 74
Appendix, Journal General Convention, 1853,) and having reference
to the institution of Ministers into Parishes.
10
The chair appointed on the Committee, Rev. Messrs. Har-
ison, Ford, Williams, and Hon. J. M. Berrien, and Col.
Bail e j.
The Rev. Messrs. Clark and Gibson asked leave of ab¬
sence to attend to ministerial duties, in their parishes, which
■was refused.
The hour for recess having arrived, Convention was closed
with prayer by the Bishop.
Friday, 4-J o'cbck, P. M.
The Bishop called the Convention to order. Members
present as in the morning, with ths addition of Mr. J. S.
Thomas, of St. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville.
The Convention nest proceeded to the annual elections,
which resulted as follows:
Treasurer of the Diocese.
Dr. James Camack,
Treasurer of the Missionary Committee.
Me. J. S. Hutton.
Standing Committee.
OF THE CLERGY. OF THE LAITY.
Ret. Edward E. Ford, D. D., G. McLaughlin,
Rev. R. Johnson, E. F. Campbell,
Rev. "W. C. Williams. Chas. D welle.
Committee on Missions.
OF THE CLERGY. OF THE LAITY.
Rev. S. G-. Bragg, N. C. Munroe,
Rev. Hp K. Rees. L. N. Whittle,
W. S. Williford,
11
Deputies to the General Convention.
OF THE CLERSY.
OF THE LAITY.
Bey. Edward E. Ford, 3). D., James Potter,
Convention adjourned, after prayer by the Bishop, until
Saturday, 10 A. M., hour of Morning Prayer.
At night Evening Prayer was read by the Eev. Mr. Har-
ison, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Johnson.
Morning Prayer was read by the Rev. Mr. Williams, as¬
sisted by the Rev. Mr. Perone, and a Sermon preached by
the Rev. Mr. Dalsele.
After divine service the Convention was called to order,
and the roll called. Present as on yesterday, with the ad¬
dition of W. S. Rockwell,delegate from St. Stephen's Church,
Milledgeville, and W. II. Scott, delegate from Zion Church,
Talbotton.
The Minutes of yesterday were read and confirmed.
The Committee on the State of the Church presented the
following report which was received.
The Committee on the State of the Church, respectfully state, that
the aggregate numbers of Baptisms, Confirmations, and Communi¬
cants, as exhibited, by the Parochial Reports, made to the present Con¬
vention, exhibits a marked increase as compared with those of the
past year. These may be considered as the best tests of the spiritu¬
al condition of the Diocese, and in these, as also in several encour¬
aging facts brought before us in the Episcopal Address, the com¬
mittee find abundant ground for devout gratitude to the gracious
Rey. S. G. Bragg,
Rev. R. Johnson,
Rev. W. C. Williams.
Daniel Griffin,
R. H. Gardiner, Jr.,
Hon. J. M. Berrien.
Saturday Morning, May 12th,
REPORT.
12
Head of the Church, and for encouragement to continued and in¬
creased zeal and fidelity in His service. If the pecuniary contribu¬
tions for Missions, and other Church and Charitable objects, have ex¬
perienced pome diminution during the past year, this result is clearly
attributable to providential causes; the prevalence of a distressing
epidemic disease in two of the largest parishes, with its many embar¬
rassing effects thereon, as also the general pecuniary depression felt
throughout the whole country, causes not necessarily impairing the
conviction above expressed, of the fulfilment towards us of the prom¬
ised blessing of our all gracious Head.
Respectfully Submitted,
EDWARD E. FORD,
President.
The Committee on Finance submitted their report, which,
on motion, was recommitted.
The Special Committee appointed to report action, if any, upon
Canon XIY, Section 5, General Convention 1853, beg leave to report,
that no action, on the part of this Convention, is, in their opinion,
necessary.
Respectfully Submitted,
Wm. H. HARISOJST, Chairman•
The Eeport was received and adopted.
The Committee on Unfinished Business presented the fol¬
lowing report which was accepted.
The Committee on Unfinished Business respectfully reports, that
the Journal of the last Convention has been examined, and no unfin¬
ished business found upon the record.
Wm. H. HARISON,
Chairman.
The Committee to whom was referred the Eesolutions in
reference to the late Rev. ftufus M. White, reported the fol¬
lowing resolutions, which were unanimously adopted.
Resolved, That the members of this Convention place on their
records their deep sense of the loss which the Diocese has sustained
i n the death of the Rev. Rufus M. White, Rector of St. John's Church,
Savannah, from the year 1845 to the year 1852, and Rector of St.
Luke's Church, Montpelier, at the time of his decease.
Resolved^ That the love of our beloved brother for the Church,
the labor which he accomplished among the poor, his earnestness and
13
•devotion as a preacher, his strength and purity of character, have pre¬
sented a bright example for our imitation, and that we will cherish
the pleasant and sacred associations which are connected with his
memory.
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Convention be directed to send
copies of the above resolutions to the bereaved widow, and to the
mother of the deceased; and to express to them the sincere and
deep sympathy which is felt by the clergy and l'aity of the Diocese
in their great and severe affliction.
The Committee on Finance submitted the following re¬
port, -which was adopted.
The Committee to whom was referred ihe account of the Treas¬
urer of the Missionary Committee pf the Diocese of Georgia, for the
year 1855, respectfully report, that they have duly examined the said
account and find the same sustained by proper vouchers.
The balance in the hands of the Treasurer at this day is,.. .$110,99
The balance due to Missionaries on 1st May, 1855, amount to 404,33
In conformity to the instruction of the Convention, the committee
respectfully reports that there is due to the Rev. R. Johnson, as Mis¬
sionary, the sum of $150, and to the Rev. J. D. Gibson, as Mission¬
ary, the sum of $200. These sums to be paid whenever there shall
appear a surplus in the hands of the Treasurer of the Missionary
Committee.
The Committee to whom were also referred the accounts of Dr.
James Camack, Treasurer of the Diocese for 1853-4, and for 1854-5,
respectfully report that they have duly examined these accounts, and
find the same duly sustained by vouchers.
On the account of 1853-4, there was one to the Treasurer for cash
advanced by him. The sum of 670.
The account of 1854-5, exhibits a balance in the hands of the
Treasurer, arising on the transactions of 1854-5, of $212. The gen¬
eral balance due the Treasurer, at this day is $458.
There is due the Treasurer, on account of Convention fund, the
sum of $25. On this account there is due to other persons, the sum
of $98.
R. R; CIJYLER,
J. S. THOMAS,
J. MORGIN SMITH.
The Hon. J. M. Berrien offered the following proposed
amendment to the Constitution, in its eleventh article, which
was considered and approved by a majority, and according
to the Constitution lies over to the next Convention.
14
Resolved, That this Convention will hereafter elect delegates to the
General Convention triennially, at the session of this Convention im¬
mediately preceding the meeting of the General Convention, and that
the delegates so elected shall be authorized to represent this Diocese
in that or any special Convention, until their successors are chosen.
Mr. L. N. Whittle, offered the following:
Resolved, That collections be taken up in the several churches of
the Diocese, on Easter Day, and be forwarded to the Treasurer, to be
invested, and constitute a permanent fund for the support of the Epis¬
copate.
Resolved, 2nd, That the amount so collected be separately stated
in the Annual Parochial Reports.
The resolution offered by Mr. Gordon, on the first day of
the Convention, was.taken up and withdrawn.
The resolution offered by Mr. Lincoln, on yesterday, was
taken up and withdrawn.
Rev. Mr. Dalsele offered the following:
•Resolved, That the next Convention of the Church be held in Trin¬
ity Church, Columbus, commencing on the Thursday after the first
Monday in May, 1856.
Col. Bailey moved to strike out Trinity Church, Colum¬
bus, and insert St. James', Marietta.
The amendment was carried, and the resolution, as amend¬
ed, was adopted.
Dr. Ford offered the following:
Resolved, That fifteen hundred copies of the Journal of this Con¬
vention be published,
which was adopted.
The Bishop appointed the Rev. Mr. Clark, to preach the
Convention Sermon, and the Rev. Mr. Dalsele his alternate j
the Rev. Mr. Perdue to preach the next Missionary Sermon,
and the Rev. Mr. Pryse his alternate.
On motion, the Convention adjourned sine die, after Pray¬
er, and the Apostolic Benediction, by the Bishop.
15
Saturday Night.
Evening Prayer was read by the Rev. Mr. Williams, and
a Sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Gehagan.
5 th Sunday after Easter.
Divine service was celebrated at 10 A. M. Morning Pray¬
er was read by the Rev. Mr. Macauley. The Ante-Com¬
munion service was read by the Rev. Dr. Ford. A Sermon
by the Rt. Rev., the Bishop of the Diocese, after which he
administered the Holy Communion to the clergy, and to
the lay delegates of Convention, and, assisted by the Rev.
Dr. Ford, to a large number of Communicants.
In the afternoon, Evening Prayer was read by the Rev.
Mr. Gehagan, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Ford.
At night the Third Service, appointed by the Bishop,
was read by the Rev. Mr. Perdue. After the Lesson the
Bishop Baptised two children, and after Evening Prayer
administered the apostolic rite of Confirmation to eight can¬
didates.
The Rev. Mr. Habersham then preached the Missionary
Sermon appointment, and was followed in an address by
the Bishop, after which a collection was taken up for Dio¬
cesan Missions, amounting to $87. The Bishop then closed
the services by prayer and the apostolic Benediction.
APPENDIX.
BISHOP'S ADDRESS.
Brethren of the Clergy and Laity:
It is with, infinite gratitude to Almighty God that I
find myself permitted to meet you once again in Conven¬
tion, and confer with you upon the topics which concern the
advancement of Christ's Church upon the earth. Through
extreme peril God has been pleased to spare my unworthy
lifs, and we are enabled, as a Diocese, to rejoice that of all
those clergymen who were exposed to a like peril, not one
has fallen, but all remain escaped unto this day. The dark
cloud has rolled away, and the calm and sunshine of ordi¬
nary life are once more marking our paths of duty and de¬
votion.
But while Death, has not stricken any of us while we
walked in the midst of the destroying Pestilence, he ha&
taken away, through natural decay, one of the loveliest
spirits of our united band. The Rev Rufus M. White,
whose whole ministerial life was spent within this Diocese,
sunk, this past autumn, under the consuming fire of that
incurable disease which baffles the skill of man and mocks
the hopes of its victims. The gradual progress of Mr.
White's disease prepared us for the final blow, and perfect¬
ed his spirit for heaven. After years of struggle against
its insidious approaches—struggles which he felt it his du¬
ty to make for his family and the church's sake—he gave
up his spirit in November last, in peaceful faith, into the
hands of his merciful Savior. But although his ransomed
17
spirit has returned to the God who gave it, his example 6f
pastoral faithfulness, of earnest longing for the salvation of
souls, of devoted attachment to the church of Christ, of un¬
measured interest in the poor and wretched, remains to us
as one of the brightest treasures of oar heritage. But be¬
sides all this, the noble structure which he lived to finish,
but never to serve, rises, a lasting monument of his labor
for this Diocese. As its cross points upward to the skies,
and glitters in the rising and the setting sun, it is a fitting
emblem of the doctrine which he preached — Jesus Christ,
and Him crucified; of the life which he lived upon earth
— the cross first and then the crown of everlasting glory.
We are called upon, likewise, to lament the early death
of one of our candid ites for Orders. Mr. John" Beaumont,
who was pursuing his theological studies in Savannah, un¬
der my direction, fell a very speedy victim to the desola¬
ting scourge of the autumn. He was preparing to leave
the city, but like many others, postponed it too long. He
received every attention which could be given any body at
such a time and under such circumstances.
At the close of our last Convention, I confirmed, in St.
Stephen's Church, Milledgeville, six persons. This Parish,
although it has been much weakened by emigration, still
constitutes a most important nucleus at the capital of the
State, and deserves the most anxious care of the Church.
Mr. Macauley still'continues his faithful labors there.
On Sunday morning May 21, I confirmed, in St. Paul's
Church, Augusta, fifteen persons; and in the afternoon, in
the Church of the Atonement, in the same place, three per¬
sons. The first of these parishes continues of very firm
and steady growth, having quite doubled its number of
communicants since my first knowledge of it: the latter of
them is parsing through the early difficulties of all new
parishes which have sprung out of an old mother church,
around which the associations and affections of the people
have clustered for generations. Such new parishes can on¬
ly grow through the introduction of new families into the
3
18
church, which is always, except with a rapidly increasing
population, a thing of slow growth. Patient labor and un¬
swerving faith in the ultimate success of the church are es-
O
sential in a clergyman who undertakes such a work.
Friday May 2t> I attended,- in the city of Savannah, a
meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Montpelier Insti¬
tute. The Report of the Secretary and Treasurer was sat¬
isfactory, showing for the years 1853—54 a steady increase
of the school under the management of its accomplished
Superintendent. In the year 1854—55 it has been still
more prosperous, and promises fair to maintain its high po¬
sition as a school for Christian Education. I would once
again most heartily recommend it as worthy of the patron¬
age of all those Episcopalians who desire to educate their
daughters from home. It is emphatically a Christian school,
in which the heart and mind are trained in proper propor¬
tion, and the virtues of the woman are developed simulta¬
neously with the acquirements of the scholar and the ac¬
complishments of the lady.
Thursday June 8 I commenced my visitation of St. Si¬
mons Island, and on Saturday night officiated upon one of
the plantations to a small congregation of negroes. On
Sunday morning I baptized, in Christ. Church, one adult,
and confirmed eighteen persons — eight white and ten col¬
ored. The white population connected with this Parish is
very limited, but a large field is spread before the Hector
in connection with the plantations. This is the only direc¬
tion in which, the Church can increase, as the very small
surface of the island will not support a large white popu¬
lation. Its tendency is, moreover, to run into large planta¬
tions; and while the negroes increase the whites will con¬
tinue to decrease. Unless, therefore, the plantations are
specially ministered unto, the congregation cannot very
much increase.
On \\ ednesday July 26 I visited Emmanuel Church,
Athens, a .d on Sunday confirmed three persons. From
Mouda^y until Thursday August § I wub in attendance up*
19
on the Board of Trustees of the University of Georgia.
Since my visit to Athens, a very liberal donation has been
male to Emmanuel Church by Mr. Ei'iru\l\r B.vYXard of
South Carolina, the particulars of which will appear in the
Parochial Report of the Church. It has been appropria.ed
to the purpose of building a parsonage.
On Sunday the 6th August 1 officiated in Grace Church,
Clarkesville, and confirm jd eight pjrsons—seven white
and one colored This was a very int -resting confirmation,
as it was composed almost entirely of a class of country
people upon whom the church has hitherto not made much
impression. The father of the family has applied to become
a candidate for Deacon's orders, under the Canon of 1853,
and has been accepted. Laboring, as he will do, in a field
entirely inaccessible to the Rector of the parish, he may be
eminently useful, and is, I trust, only the lirst fruits of a
legislation which has certainly moved in the right direc¬
tion. In the afternoon of the same day I officiated in a
chapel of ease erected in the country by the zeal and de-
votedness of a member of Grace Church.
From the period of my return to Savannah, about the
12th day of August, until the middle of November, I was
confined to the city by the fearful pestilence which ravaged
it, and exposed its congregations to nauseous disease and
rapid dissolution. In this work of duty I was assisted by
the disinterested labors of the Rev. Mr. Dalsele, then re¬
cently called to the Rectorship of Trinity Church, Colum¬
bus; and it affords me much pleasure to record thus pub¬
licly my own gratitude, and that of the congregations in
Savannah, for his self-sacrificing attention to the sick and
the afflicted, and for his excellent judgment and good sense
in sugg' sting and carrying out various plans for the benefit
of our suffering city.
On Christmas day I confirmed, in Christ Church, Sa¬
vannah, fourteen persons, and two on the same day, in pri¬
vate, connected with the same congregation.
On Sunday 14th January I confirmed, in Trinity Church,
20
Columbus, twenty-one persons. I found this Parish ill
most active condition. All its benevolent operations were
arranged in admirable order, and its Sunday and Parochial
Schools deserve the highest commendation. These things
cannot fail to produce a most excellent influence upon the
future condition of the Diocese.
On Wednesday the 17th January, I admitted to Priest's
Orders, in Christ Church, Macon, the Rev. H. K. Rees.
Mr. Rees has succeeded Mr. Shanklin in charge of this
Parish, and bids fair to carry on the good work which was
begun under its former pastor. It is always a shock to a
parish to change its pastoral relation; but in this case it
was more than usually painful, from Mr. Shanklin's long
and interesting ministry among them. He lias gone to a
wider field, but not to one in which he can be more useful
or will be more esteemed. May the choicest blessings of
Heaven attend him in his change. In the evening of the
same day I confirmed one person.
About the middle of February I was attacked with a
temporary affection of the throat, which compelled me to
suspeud all ministerial duty and take refuge upon the sea
coast. I was unable to resume my duties until Easter day,
when I confirmed, in Christ Church, Savannah, four per¬
sons ; and in the afternoon of the same day, in St. John's
Church, fourteen persons. This Parish has suffered very
much during the year, from the effects of the hurricane of
8th September; but the continued liberality of its mem¬
bers has replaced the church in its original condition.
On Tuesday afternoon April 24,1 officiated in the chapel
upon the plantation of the estate of the late Arthur Heygood,
Esq., now under the missionary charge of the Rev. Mr. Wil¬
liams. I catechized the children and confirmed twenty-six
persons, all colored. This confirmation was an exceedingly
interesting one, because many of the candidates were young
persons who had been trained in the Sunday School, and
who came forward clearly understanding the baptismal ob¬
ligations they were ratifying. Ijt offered me another striking
21
proof of the adaptedness of the Church to these persons,
"when enforced by a perseverance which will not grow
weary and a faith which will not falter, in the missionary
who labors among them. Ten years had elapsed since Mr.
Williams had entered upon this work, and although he had
passed many weary and seemingly fruitless hours, he was
now blessed in seeing them flock as doves to their windows
and in finding himself surrounded by an atta hed and
grateful flock, who were growing in grace and in the knowl¬
edge of the Lord.
In the afternoon of Wednesday the 25th April I officia¬
ted at the plantation of Miss Clay, in Bryan county, and
preached to a very respectable assemblage of people. As
this place has only recently been attached to the mission of
Mr. Williams, no candidates were offered for confirmation.
In the evening of the same day I officiated at the plan¬
tation of the estate of Dr. E. E. Elliott, preached, and con¬
firmed thirteen persons. This plantation is likewise re¬
ceiving the missionary attendance of Mr. Williams. A
most interesting state of 'feeling is pervading the colored
people of these plantations, and a large harvest is prepar¬
ing for the church of the Redeemer.
On Sunday April 29 I officiated at St. James Church,
Marietta, and confirmed thirteen persons. Services were
continued in the church on Monday, Wednesday and
Thursday of the same week, and upon this last occasion I
baptized one adult and confirmed two persons—making fif¬
teen in this Parish during this visitation.
I cannot refrain, in connection with the services held
in this Parish, from presenting it as an encouragement
for all those clergymen of the Church, here or elsewhere,
who may be struggling to build up the Church in difficult
places. Founded about twelve years since, in a town just
then emerging from the woods, it has already attained a
standing which places it among the leading congregations
of the Diocese. And during those years, it was, at one time,,
from emigration, reduced to one single communicant outside
22
of the Rector's household. Ilad it been then abandoned,
we should, probably, have been obliged to struggle for years
to regain our position. But pcrserverance has overcome all
difficulties, and its Rector can now reckon nearly seventy
communicants as kneeling statedly at her Communion ta¬
ble.
We cannot expect, as a Church, to make any very rapid
growth in any part of the Southern States. So long did
it lie neglected after the revolution—so much like a step¬
mother did the Church treat her children, that in all the
newly settled portions of the Southern States, she was as
much ignored as if she had been driven out with the mon¬
archy. Even in South-Carolina, one of the strongest of
all the colonial Churches, it has been, and still is, a work
of exceeding difficulty, to build up the Episcopal Church in
its Western districts; and I can remember, after I became
a man, when there was no Episcopal Church in that State,
above Columbia. It is only by a long and steady devotion,
by an earnest and prayerful perseverance that we can recov¬
er the ground we have lost, and re-establish our liturgical
services and pastoral system and Episcopal supervision.
One generation, at least, must pass away, ere we can be¬
come a Church, running an equal race with the forms of
worship which prevail around us. We must plant Churches
and sustain Ministers whereever we can, so as to cover as
large a field as our limited resources will admit. We must
raise up Ministers of the Gospel from the soil, and thus in¬
terest local circles in their ministry: and above all must
preach the gospel faithfully and earnestly and we need not
tremble for the consequences.
The subject which is now agitating the Church in con¬
nexion with the memorial of certain Presbyters to the last
General Convention, stands associated with the matter up¬
on which I am commenting, and gives me an opportunity
of expressing more fully than I did at the last Couveution,
my views upon this interesting topic. *
The growth of the Episcopal Church, in this county, ginco
23
she has put forth her life and activity, through her Scriptu¬
ral form of Church Government since she has multiplied
her dioceses and increased the number of her Bishops, has
been quite as rapid among some classes of the community as
could reasonably have been expected, or as might have
been safe for the conservation of her principles. While she-
was yet weak in numbers, and untried in the elements of
her organization any very sudden or rapid increase of her
members, from those unaccustomed to her forms, might have
endangered the vital principles which were involved in her
success. It is not, therefore, because I think that her in¬
crease has been unusually small, or her influence dispropor-
tionably limited, that I touch upon this topic, but because I
see before her such a career of usefulness and of glory, that
I am anxious she should be disembarrassed of every thing
which may retard her progress or diminish her usefulness.
She is now strong enough to relax a little of her rigidness,
without endangering, in any degree, her distinctiveness, or
her excellency. At this stage of her growth, we should
not permit any idle fears to prevent us from exhibiting her
in a form as attractive and as efficient as it is possible for
her to exhibit. It would be a silly pride which should re¬
fuse to take advantage of any opportunity which might oc¬
cur to render the Church more accessible to the thousands
who arc yearning for something better and holier than they
possess.
I do not, for a single moment, entertain the idea that our
General Convention would ever grant permission for the
introduction into the Church of a class of Ministers who
should receive orders at the hands of her Bishops, and yet
be allowed to minister in holy things according to their own
fancies or conceits. This, I conceive, to be out of the ques¬
tion, and, therefore, not requiring any discussion. It should
be so contrary to the whole tone and spirit of the Church,
should be so decidedly alien from her established character,
that it would be revolution and not reform. Neither do I
suppose that the Convention would propose or the Diooeses
24
sanction any material changes in the Liturgy of the Church,
nor any changes, indeed, which should alter her doctrine
or teaching in the least degree. But, at the same time, I
trust that the opportunity may not pass away without such
an examination of the whole subject as shall detect the
weak points of the administration of the Church—for, in
my opinion, the defect lies neither in our organization, nor
in our ritual, but in the practical working of what I con¬
sider the most perfect, because the most Scriptural system of
Church Government. Our Episcopacy, our Ministry, our
Creeds, our Liturgy, our Articles of Faith, are our strength ;
our weakness lies in the wielding of this armor. Nothing has
kept us from absolute annihilation under the rigid mode in
which we have worked the Church, but those very features
which many are apt to look upon as our defects. They
imagine that because the Church has not got along very
fast in certain directions under this load, as they call it, of
orders and ordinances, of rites and ceremonies, that there¬
fore she cannot wield them with power and effect. But
here lies the great mistake; her power is just where these
men place her weakness,in her Scriptural Orders, her settled
faith, and her unchanging ritual—her weakness, just where
they are unwilling to look for it, in her practical working.
Let me point out what I consider the defects of the Church,
and how they may be remedied.
The first and most radical defect in the sj^stem of the
Church seems to me to be in the training of her Ministry.
This training has been almost entirely scholastic, carried on
without any practical experience of the work which is to be
taken in hand when the training was finished. 1 he feeling
seems to have been, that learning was the one paramount
qualification for the work of the Ministry, not, of course, to
the exclusion of piety, but very much to the exclusion of
all that knowledge which fitted a man for struggles with
the minds and souls of his fellow-men. The consequence
has been, that we have produced in the Church but one
kind of meh. A sort of Procrustean has been arranged, to
25
which all talents, temperaments, habits, qualities, have
been fitted, and as-the result of this arrangement, our Min¬
istry has been well adapted to one class of every community,
but not so well to any other. This is the reason why we have
not produced results among the masses. When men of great
individuality of character have broken through the trammels
of this rigid discipline, they have been ever looked upon
with suspicion, no matter how much good they may have ef¬
fected for the Church, and have been, for a long time, consid¬
ered as anomalies within her pale. It is to this condition of
thing? that we must attribute very much of the lack of sym¬
pathy between the Church and the great body of the peo¬
ple. I consider it the main reason, a reason operating in
two directions: first, upon the Ministry itself, by giving them
habits, feelings, tastes, which incline them only to one kind
of service, and which adapt them to no other: secondly, up¬
on the people, who find in men, so trained, no congeniality
of sentiment, or thought, or even expression,—who-;e in¬
stinct tells them at once that they belong to two distinct
orders of society.
Whenever a clergyman of our Church can so far deny
himself as to lay down at the foot of the Cross all the tastes
and habits in which he has been trained, and which really
prove a snare and a temptation to him, and devcte himself
to the very humblest classes of life, he does not find his E-
piscopacy, or his Liturgy, or his Church ordinances inter¬
fering at all with his success. His labor is not to adapt
them to the people, but to adapt himself. This task once
accomplished, for which he has to fight against all his pre¬
vious education, he finds no difficulty with the rest. His
whole struggle is with himself, to unlearn habits, to crucify
tastes, to gain flexibility. His training has all been the other
way; the effort has been to make him a good theologian,
instead of a ready Minister of the Gospel of grace, —to im¬
prove his style, or his address, when the struggle should
have been to increase his earnestness and fervor—to culti¬
vate his knowledge of books, when What he most lacked,
4
26
was a knowledge of men. Here and there, as I said before,
have men worked out for themselves an individual career,
and they have been uniformly successful in their efforts
among all classes of society. The life of our late lamented
Presiding Bishop, Philander Chase is a running commen¬
tary upon these remarks, and the aptest illustration of the
kind of men the Church needs, and of the success which at¬
tend their efforts.
Here lies, in my opinion, the chief difficulty in the way
of the Church, and its remedy is not to be found in canonical
action, but in a change to be worked in the opinions and
feelings of the Church herself. The Canon, adopted by
the last General Convention respecting admission to Dea¬
con's orders after a years study of the Scriptures and the
Prayer Book, opens the door wide enough for all purposes.
But the Church has come to think a minister of her fold
must be trained in a particular way, and must have a cer¬
tain prestige of manner and address, forgetting the while
that what to the larger part of her present body of commu¬
nicants is mere gentility and good manners, seems to other
and much larger classes to be affectation and pride. If the
Church is to be limited to the more refined classes of socie¬
ty, the present education of her ministry is highly suitable
and efficient, but if she craves to conquer the great masses
of the country civic or rural, she must train a very differ¬
ent set of men, with entirely different qualifications from
those which at present distinguish her Clergy. I would ap¬
peal to you who now sit before me, an able and intelligent
body of Clergy, and ask how many of you are qualified to
enter upon the arena of a rural parish and address men face
to face with argument, and appeal and in controversy, where
you should be stripped of your usual preparation upon pa¬
per, and be without the usual arrangements of a settled par¬
ish? And yet this readiness and address are what is want¬
ed, if we are ever to reach those classes of the community.
But all this is checked and restrained in the Church, and
extemporaneous preaching, which ought to be a power, oa-
27
pable of being used by every Clergyman, is rebuked and
discountenanced. Flexibility is wanting and until we ac¬
quire it, and until the opinion of the Church sanctions and
cherishes it, we shall call in' vain for legislation. Canons
can do nothing for us so long as the people of the Church
are oppfped to the Catholicity of the Church.
Ministers trained after this fashion are sent forth yearly
into the Church, and are expected to make their way against'
prejudices of every kind, against habits which have become'
a second nature, against organizations having the whole
social influence on their side, without being permitted to''
exercise the least discretion in the arrangement of the ser¬
vices to be used upon occasions of public worship. Should
a young Minister be bold enough to use a wise judgment
in this matter, he is compelled to exercise it without any
authority whatever. The usage of the Church requires
that he should, upon every occasion of Sunday worship,
bring before the people, however unaccustomed and unpre¬
pared they may be, an accumulation of services which have
no meaning for them, and which are therefore wearisome
and tedious. "Was this Minister permitted, under sanction
of his Ecclesiastical authority, to omit such and such services
upon such and such occasions of public worship, the result
would be very different in newly organized parishes. Our
usual arrangement of Morning Service, I will not say our
order of Morning Service, for the Prayer Book in its arrange- -
ment and spirit, is wiser than those who use it, accumulates
upon a congregation, no matter how newly formed, Mor¬
ning Prayer, Litany, Communion Service, and often an ad¬
dition of occasional services, which occupy a far longer time •
than is convenient. The spirit can worship devoutly no
longer than the body can sustain it; the moment you pass
that limit, lassitude takes the place of devotion, and dead-
ness drives out feeling. In a climate as oppressive as is the
summer climate of this whole continent, I deem it utterly
inexpedient to crowd all these services upon each occasion •
of public worship . While, therefore, I should not desire ~
28
any mutilation of the various services of the Church, I should
be much rejoiced to see a wise discretion permitted in the
Church in the division of our present Sunday Morning Ser¬
vice into its primitive constituent parts. And in this, there
•would be no violation of the spirit of the Prayer Book, for
already is it done in our week day services,there being no Lit¬
any during the week, except on Wednesdays and Fridays,
and no Communion Service, unless it be a Saint's day or
a Festival. I have assummed this discretion myself upon
many occasions, separating the Morning Prayer from the
Communion Service, yet reading them both at different
periods of the day. Where this discretion shall be left, and
how and when it should be exercised, would, of course, be
a part of the legislation which should regulate the matter.
Another difficulty which lies in the way of the advance¬
ment of the Church is the little control which the Bishop
has over the movements of the Clergy. In both the most
efficient Ecclesiastical bodies of the world, the Horn an and
the Methodist Churches, the control over the position and
movements of the Clergy is almost absolute. The Ministers
of those Churches are placed and kept in fields of labor,
not according to their own fancy or their own calculations,
but according to the view which the eye of the authority
takes of their adaptedness to those fields. In the Presby¬
terian Church, if I am rightly informed, no Pastor can dis¬
solve his connexion with his Church, except with the con¬
sent of his Presbytery. With us, on the other hand, the
Bishop has bui little such authority. So long as a Clergy¬
man remains a Deacon, he can, theoretically, exercise some
control over his movements, but that control is limited to
the one year of his diaconate, and from the lack of ministry
in the Church, has come to be almost nominal. With this
exception, pur Clergy come, and go as they please—leave
fields of labor to which they are admirably adapted, to run
to others in which complete failure awaits them—turn their
backs upon parishes just when they have staid long enough
29
to gain moral influence, and to put the Church into active
movement within them—break up without hesitation, pasto¬
ral ties which have been the result of many years work, and
which neither they nor the parishioners whom they leave,
can ever form again with the like tenderness, and all this
without the Bishop's having the authority to interfere with
the movement, save so far as his personal advice or influ¬
ence may have weight with his Clergy. There is no Bish¬
op in the Church who does not feel this to be a most serious
evil, one over which he is called constantly to lament, and
for which he can find no remedy. Whether the Church
may be able to devise some arrangement, whereby this
defect may be lessened, remains to be seen. We knowthat
it is always an unpopular topic when one speaks of an in¬
crease of power on t ie part of the Bishops of the Church,
and of a diminution of liberty on the part of the Presbyte-
rate, and yet, at a time when we are guaging the condition
of the Church, it is well to consider every point which may
have its influence upon that condition. Besides, it must be
remembered that the Bishops are bound to their dicceses
by a life bond, which can be served only by processes
very painful, or very difficult. It will be a day of rejoic¬
ing for the Church, however it may be attained, when there
shall be more steadfastness in the pastoral relation.
These are, in my opinion, some of the causes of the slow
progress of the Church in our new dioceses, and among
certain classes of society. It is not the system—that is pro¬
foundly wise—it is the practical working of the system; it
is not the organization, it is the training of those who are ap¬
pointed to work that organization, and that training is based
upon a Church opinion which must be met and controvert¬
ed. I have felt it my duty to place these views before you
that you may know what are my opinions in regard to the
questions which must very soon be settled in the Church.
My next visit was made to St. Philip's Church, Atlanta,
where I found the Parish reviving under the minidtrations
30
of the Rev. Mr. Johstson-. I officiated 011 Saturday night,
May 5th, and on Sunday morning, May 6th, and in the
afternoon confirmed seven persons. A second confirmation
was held at night, which added two others to the number.
This Parish will soon become, from the rapid growth of
Atlanta, one of the most important Parishes of the Diocese,
and I am happy to say that the Church is in a fair way of
being strongly established there.
From Atlanta I visited Montpelier, and on Wednesday
morning confirmed in the Chapel of the Institute seven
persons. I was happy to find the School in excellent con¬
dition, and every thing about the premises in the best order.
Since our last Convention, many very important changes
have taken place within the Diocese, and are a striking
commentary upon the remarks which I have made upon
the subject of clerical removal. The Rev. Mr. Dalsele, late
of the Colonial Church of British Guiana, having resided a
year within the United States, after exhibiting his creden¬
tials to the Provisional Bishop of New York, and having
subscribed the declaration contained in the 4th article of
the Constitution of the Church of the United States, has
become the Rector of Trinity Church, Columbus, made va¬
cant by the appointment of the Rev. Thomas Scott to the
Episcopate of Oregon and Washington. The Rev. Mr..
Perdue has taken charge of the Church at Madison. The
Rev. Mr. Gibson, who accepted the City Mission in Savan¬
nah, has resigned it, and the Rev. Mr. Pryse, of Maryland,
has accepted the position. The Rev. Mr. Shanklin has re¬
signed the charge of Christ Church, Macon, and removed
to South Carolina. He has been succeeded by the Rev.
Mr. Rees, the present incumbent of the Parish. The Rev.
Messrs. Smith and Mower have likewise been transferred to
the Diocese of Virginia. The Rev. Mr. Johnson has re¬
moved to St. Philip's Church, Atlanta, and the Rev. Mr.
Gehagan has taken the Parish which he vacated in Talbot-
toa.
31
The death of Mr. John Beaumont reduced our candidates
for orders to one, Mr. McAllister. Since Mr. Beaumont's
death, Mr. McClure, of Clarksville, has become a candidate
for orders under the canon of 1853, proposing at present to
go no farther than the Diaconate. Mr. Macaulay has been
transferred from Western New l.'ork, which gives us three
candidates for the ministry. This is better than it has been,
but instead of three we need twice or thrice that number.
During the current year I have given my consent to the
election of the Right Rev. Jackson Kemper to the Diocese
of Wisconsin, and likewise to the consecration of the Rev.
Horatio Potter, as Provisional Bishop of the Diocese of
New York ; of the Rev. Thos. M. Clark as Bishop of Rhode
Island, and of the Rev. Henry W. Lee to the Episcopate
of Iowa.
I cannot close this address without paying a tribute of
heartfelt affection to the memory of the late lamented Pro¬
visional Bishop of New York, the Rev. Dr. Wainwright.
Entering upon his Episcopate with a vigorous constitution,
fully prepared physically, as we vainly imagined, as well
as intellectually and spiritually for the great office which
was laid upon him, he promised to be long an ornament to
the Church of the Redeemer. But the vast amount of work
which he found accumulated upon his hands forced him to
give himself day and night to the duties of his office, and it
was too much for even his well balanced frame. Two
years sufficed to wear out a constitution which seemed fited
to bid defiance to labor, and to lay him prostrate upon his
bed of final sickness. He died with his harness on, labor¬
ing up to the very last moment of his ability for the Church
committed to his care. Few men have ever entered the
Episcopate better qualified to fill the office than Dr. Wain-
wright. Highly educated, a ripe scholar, and a sound Theo¬
logian, a well-bred gentleman, full of zeal and love for the
Church of Christ, thoroughly versed in the business and
routine of the Church, he seemed, to our eyes, the very
32
person to fill the post of'importance and delicacy to which
he had been summoned. And daring the short period in
which he was permitted to hold the reins of office, he gave
universal satisfaction under circumstances of great embar¬
rassment and difficulty. But his Master thought fit to take
him early to his rest, and the Church bows to the will of
her sovereign Head.
STEPHEN ELLIOTT.
PAROCHIAL REPORTS.
CHRIST CHURCH—SAVANNAH.
RT. RET. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR., RECTOR.
Baptisms—Adults, white 1, colored 1, .2
„ Children, white, 35, colored 3, 38
Total Baptisms, 40
Confirmations, all white, 20
Communicants reported last year, 213
„ added during year, 28
241
„ lost by death and removed, 10
Present number, 231
Marriages—white 13, colored 1, total 14
Burials—white, of congregation. 18
„ „ not of congregation, 37
„ colored 3
Total Burials, 58—58
Sunday School—Teachers and Superintendent, 14
Scholars in connection with the School, 115
Contributions.
Contributions for Diocesan purposes: *
Ladies' Working Society, by contributions, $192
„ dividends on stock, 120
Total Ladies' Working Society,. . .312
6
34
Amount brought forwawd,
Missionary Boxes in Church,
Collection for Diocesan purposes, 25th Feb.,
Total Contributions for Diocesan purposes, 694—$694
Of this amount gave to—
St. Paul's Church, Albany,
St. Andrew's Church, Darien,
Two Missionaries of Diocese, help support
Remitted Treasurer Diocesan Missions, ..
694
Collected for City Missions, during year, 850,00
Offeratory, 724,80
Orphan's Home, 1,100,00
Episcopal Salary, 1,000,00
Bible and Prayer Book Society, 66,00
Sunday School for Child in China, 25,00
„ „ Africa, 20,00
Domestic Missions, 4,479,80
Thro' an individual 10,00, foreign individual, 5,00, 15,00
Total, $4494,80
I have not felt myself at liberty during the past winter to take up
collections from the congregation of Christ Church, for any other than
Diocesan purposes. Having very many engagements in connection
with the Diocese—such as the Orphan's Home, and the City Mis¬
sion—and haviDg been desolated by pestilence and hurricane, I have
deemed it best, to confine the liberality of the congregation to those
objects. This will account for the small remittance made to the Do¬
mestic and Foreign Ccfmmittees.
Many of the Parochial acts reported in this congregation were
performed by the Rev. Messrs. Dalsele and Gibson, and to the former
esteemed clergyman the congregation of the city of Savannah, are
very deeply indebted for his services during the pestilence of the last
312
100
282
250
171
115
158
35
summer. To the latter I must publicly return my thanks, and that
of my people, for his cheerful and acceptable services during my long
indisposition of the past winter.
SAVANNAH RIVER MISSION.
REV. S. W. KENNERLY, MISSIONARY.
Baptisms—Adults 4, children 31, total, 35
Communicants, 140
Marriages—white, 2; colored, 12; total, 14
Burials, 25
Communicants expelled, 2; restored, 1.
Children under catechetical instruction, 1"75
The Missionary regards this Mission as now firmly established, and
is happy to be able to report it in a prosperous condition. Three
years have just passed since he entered upon its duties. He has at
this time a number of candidates under instruction, preparatory to
their baptism, which will soon take place. The services are generally
well attended and the Missionary feels very much encouraged by the
increasing interest manifested by the negroes in religion and the ser¬
vices of the Church. They appear more and more to appreciate a
ministry which is for them and their benefit, and especially a ministry
affording them all the comforts arising out of a resident pastoral re¬
lationship.
May God bless it to the salvation of this people.
ST. PAUL'S CHURCH —AUGUSTA.
REV. ED WARP E. FORD, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 6, children 32, total, 38
Confirmed, 15
Communicants—added, 20; died, 8; removed, 8; transferred 1;
repelled, 1; present number, 14T
36
Marriages, 8
Burials 26, (17 not of congregation,) total, 43
Sunday Schools—white children, about 80
under the care of teachers, 9
colored children and youth, average, 30
under the care of teachers, 2
Contributions.
Communion Alms, $360,42
Missions, Diocesan, 253,00
Missions General Board:
Domestic, 64,00
Foreign, 49,66
To aid in building a Church at Lookout, Texas, 66,50
To aid St. Paul's Church, Albany, Baker Co., their Church
building, 25,00
Special collection in Church for relief of sick poor during the
epidemic of last summer, 130,00
(The above does not include liberal donations in other ways by
members of congregation at that time.)
The Bishop's Salary, 500,00
A handsome addition has been made to the Sunday School Libra¬
ry-
The Rector is devoutly thankful to be able to state that " the
Church Asylum," of which mention has been made in his previous
reports, is now in regular operation, and in a condition altogether
encouraging. The House, favorably located, and plainly but comforta¬
bly furnished and appointed, is fully paid for, and ten beneficiaries,
four girls and six boys, under the charge of a kind matron. Children
rescued from poverty and neglect, probably from vice and profligacy,
are receiving its benefits. An excellent Teacher is devoting herself,
most faithfully, to their instruction, in which a distinct and prominent
place is given to their religious training. As children of the Church,
this School is open free of charge to other children of the Parish,
whose Parents cannot afford the expense of a pay School, and a few
such children are also receiving its benefits. The Rector is happy to
observe, in the congregation, an increasing interest in this charity, and
37
aot without, he will add, a reflex influence, proving that " they who
water others" in such unselfish labors of Christian love as this, " shall
themselves be watered." Besides the regular membership subscrip¬
tions, several liberal donations, partly in money and partly in supplies
of clothing and provisions, have been made. A good Parochial
"work, based upon sound principles, is thus fairly begun. Under the
Divine blessing, it has passed successfully through the struggles of a
somewhat trying infancy, and the hope is indulged that in its future
course it will prove a source of substantial benefit, temporal and
spiritual, to many of the children of poverty.
CHURCH OF THE ATONEMENT—AUGUSTA.
REV. WM. H. HARRISON, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 4; infants 18 ; total 22
■Confirmations 3
Communicants—added 4; removed 2 ; total 22
Marriages, 4
Burials 10
Sunday School Teachers 5
" " Scholars ...35
Contributions.
Communion alms. $111,79
Weekly offerings 147,09
Special collections 44,91
$303,79
The Rector also reports, that during the past year a Parish
School has been established, which now numbers—Scholars.... 34
TRINITY CHURCH, COLUMBUS.
REV. W. J. D. DALSELE, RECTOR.
Marriages ......
7
38
Baptisms—white adults 8 5 children 44 ; colored 18 ; total 10
Confirmations—white 20 ; colored 1; total 21
Communicants 108
Burials—adults, white 8 ; colored 2 ; children, white 6 ; total.. .16
Disbursements by the Parish during the past gear, exclusive of
Rector's stipend.
Domestic Missions—Ladies' Society $100,00
Offeratory 68,00
Church at Matagorda, Texas—Rev. Mr. Wright 167,00
" " Albany—Rev. J. H. George 100,00
Diocesan Missions 95,00
Foreign Missions 102,00
Bishop's stipend 250,00
Convention expenses 21,60
Alms and individual expenses 446,05
$1,349,65
The Present Rector took charge of the Parish on the 15th October.
Since then, in addition to the regular morning and evening service
on Sunday, there is also morning and evening service on Wednes¬
days and Fridays, and on all the Holy Days. The Holy Commun¬
ion is administered on the first Sunday in every month, and on the
greater Festivals. The Sunday School has an average attendance of
one hundred pupils, under a Superintendent, a Librarian, and nine¬
teen Teachers. The Parochial School, under the especial care of a
few ladies of the Parish, by whom it was organized three years ago,
continues to be the instrument of much good, and has an average
attendance of forty-five Pupils, chiefly the children of the poorest
portion of the community. The pupils regularly attend on the Wed¬
nesday, Friday, and the Holy Day services.
CHRIST CHURCH, MACON".
REV. H. K. REES, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 2 ; children 9 ; total
11
39
Confirmation I
Communicants—Number reported last year 108; added 1; re¬
moved into Parish 2 ; total Ill
Children in Sunday School—whites 7 7; colored 14 ; total 91
Teachers 14
Marriages 2
Burials 4
Contributions.
Communion offerings $79,13
Foreign Missions, 82,00
Diocesan " 182,25
Parochial purposes 87,00
Children of Sabbath School 21,55
Parishoners donations to Rector 200,00
Ladies' working Society to benevolent objects 40,00
Bishop's salary 300,00
This report dates from the first of October, when the present Rec¬
tor was placed in charge, and is therefore not an exhibit of the year.
ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH—MILLEDGEVILLE.
REV. GEORGE MACAULEY, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adult 1
Communicants—repelled 1; present number 17
Marriages. 2
Burials 4
Contributions.
Domestic Missions $25,05
The number of Communicants is still small, yet I feel confident
that the Parish is stronger now than it ever was in any period of its
history.
The Rector cannot forego the pleasure of expressing his gratitude
40
to his people for their unremitting kindness and unmerited liberality
towards him.
ST. JAMES' CHURCH—MARIETTA,
REV. B. E. HABERSHAM, RECTOR.
Families ..............rr^. -.30
Communicants—added 30 : removed 2 ; died 1; present num¬
ber, white 68 ; colored 3 ; total .. r 71
Confirmed 15'
Baptisms—adults 5; infants 17; total 22
Burials—adult 1; children 8 ; total 9
Marriages... 4
Sunday School Scholars 52; Teachers 8 ; total r....... 60
Contributions.
To the poor of Savannah .,.. $208,50
To Diocesan Missions 40,00
To Foreign Missions - 20,00
To Bishop Payne, from a communicant 50,00
To Episcopal support 25,00
$343,50
Of the Baptisms reported, one adult and one infant were baptized
by the Rector in his late Parish in Madison. The increase of the
Communicants is partly attributable to immigration, and the number
of the Confirmed to the fact that no Confirmation had been held in
the Parish for several years; but the Rector is thankful to be able
to say that it has been attended with a corresponding increase of the
devotional spirit in the congregation, and trust it is but the earnest
of what the Lord will do for us, if we be faithful to Christ and his
Church. Regular service is held on Friday evening, and attendance
and effect have been decidedly encouraging.
41
ST. LUKE'S PARISH — MONTPELIEft.
REV. SENECA G. BRAGG- OFFICIATING AS PASTOR.
Baptisms—adults g
(By Right Rev. Bishop Elliott, in the city of Macon, by
request,) Infants 3
in other places, infants 3
Total 8
Confirmations—Persons connected with the Faculty of Georgia
Episcopal Institute 3
Pupils of the Institute 4
Total 7
Funerals—At Montpelier, colored child 1
In the City of Macon, infant. 1
„ „ „ adults 3
Total 5
Communicants—All but one connected with Geo. Epis. Institute.. 10
Communion Alms—Appropriated to Diocesan Missions $17
Contributions—By the Ladies' Missionary Society of the Geor¬
gia Episcopal Institute to Foreign Missions,
last year, not reported .55
By the same Society, the present yeai', as follows :
For China 25
For Africa 20
For Greece 10
For general purposes of Foreign Missions. 5
Total 1132
Since the resignation of the Rev. Rufus M. White, the lamented
Rector of this Parish, in the month of March, last year, the duty of
officiating in his place devolved upon the undersigned, then assisting
as Chaplain of the Georgia Episcopal Institute. A faint hope had
been cherished that one so devoted and useful as our late Pastor
might recover his health, and resume his charge at a future period*
6
42
But that hope was extinguished by his early and triumphant death.
His memory is embalmed in the hearts of all persons with whom lie
held intercourse at Montpelier.
During the last vacation of the Institute, having journeyed with a
view to the improvement of my health, I would gratefully acknow¬
ledge the cave and loving kindness of the Lord, while absent from my
station, and His blessing upon the endeavor to increase my strength.
The School has been favored the present term by an addition to
the number of Teachers and Pupils, and by an unusual exemption
from sickness of nearly every kind. Still we need more decided en¬
couragement and support. And at this time such aid is more im¬
portant on account of the unavoidable loss of the services of our effi¬
cient and distinguished Principal, Miss Martha M. Buell, after the
close of this Term. In the opinion of every person now associated
with the instruction and management of the Institution, its future
and permanent usefulness requires prompt and united exertions on the
part of all its friends who possess influence and other means which
might advance its prosperity.
Once more we make our humble and earnest appeal for help, to
every portion of our own Diocese, while remembering that our trust
must be in the Gracious and Divine Head of the Church, " without
whom nothing is strong—nothing is lioly."
GEACE CHURCH—CLARKSVILLE.
REV. B. F. MOWER, RECTOl*.
Baptisms—infants 6
Confirmed 8
Communicants—white 19 20
Sunday School Scholars at Chapel of the Holy Cross 20
Teachers of Sunday School 4
Sunday School Scholars under the charge of Mr. Samuel
McClure, near Tray Mountain 20
Teachers at same place 2
Candidate for Holy orders 1
Marriages—colored 1
Burials 3
43
Contributions.
Communion alms . .$57,00
For Diocesan Missions 19,00
Foreign Missions .4,00
Domestic „ 3,00
Man „ 11,25
Sunday School house, near Tray Mountain 45,00
$139,25
The contributions for Foreign, Domestic, and Indian Missions,
were from the children of the Sunday School of the Chapel of the
Holy Cross. The contributions for Diocesan Missions were less than
usual, because but one quarterly collection was taken up.
ST. JOHN'S CHURCH—SAVANNAH.
rev. George h. clark, rector.
Baptisms—infants 20 ; colored 1 ; adults, white 4 25
Communicants—added 22, died 5, removed 8 ; present number 140
Confirmed—one in private 15
Marriages—whites 4, colored 2 6
Burials 19
Sunday School Teachers 19
Scholars 9*7
Contributions.
Foreign Missions $50,00
African „ 64,00
Chisese „ 25,00
Diocesan „ 202,00
Domestic „ 50,00
Bishop Scott, Oregon 131,00
Communion alms 250,43
Bishop's salary 250,0t
44
Ladies' Society, benevolent purposes 39,00
Episcopal Orphan's Home 477,00
For the poor, last summer 1,490,00
Offertory on 11 Sundays for repairs on Church edifice 473,29
Candidates for orders 50,00
Church at Albany 50,00
Special contributions 100,00
Surplice presented to the Church 25,00
Gown presented to the Rector 50,00
$3,776,78
No public collections were made in the Parish from July 1st to
Christinas, and for three months of this time the Church was closed.
Soon .after the last Convention, the Rector was compelled to leave
for the North on account of ill-health, when the Bishop, with the
approval of the Vestry of Christ Church, proposed to officiate on
Sunday afternoons, and to perform parochial duty in my absence. I
desire to record my high appreciation of the sympathy and the kind¬
ness which were shown to me by our beloved Bishop—by the Vestry
of Christ Church—by the Vestry of St. John's—and to acknowledge
my sincere gratitude for the same. In consequence of the calami¬
ties of the last summer, which scattered the people, broke up the
Sunday School, and made the Church edifice unfit for occupation,
the prospects of the Parish became extremely dark and discourag¬
ing ; but within the last six months there have been more indica¬
tions of prosperity than it has been my privilege to see before. The
congregations have increased—the contributions have been liberal—
a more general and fixed affection for the Church has been exhibited,
and the families which have become identified with us have been
such as are likely to give strength and stability to the Parish.
For these blessings we give thanks to God.
CHUKCH OF THE ADVENT—MADISON.
REV. \T. J. PERDUE, MISSIONARY.
I took charge of this Church on the first Sunday after Easter, 15th
of April. The number of communicants 14
45
The Missionary to the Church of the Ascension and the Church
of the Good Shepherd, Cave Spring, Reports :
That he entered upon his work in the middle of June, and was
called from it early in September.
He found at the Church of the Good Shepherd—
Communicants 11
Baptisms—infants 1
Burials—infants 1
At the Church of the Ascension—
Communicants 5
Interesting Sunday Schools are sustained during the summer
months, and the attendance on Divine service encouraging.
Contributions.
From each Church to the Missionary fund $50 ; total $100,00
The Missionary also visited Calhoun, Gordon county, where he
found one communicant, and some 15 or 20 friends of the Church.
The Rev. J. H. George very kindly made a visit to the Church of
the Ascension—administered the Holy Communion, assisted by the
Missionary in his Diaconate.
The Church of the Good Shepherd was favored with the like ser¬
vices by the Rev. Dr. E. E. Ford, and the Rev. J. D. Gibson.
OGEECHEE MISSION.
REV. WM. C. WILLIAMS, MISSIONARY.
Baptisms—adults, colored 45; children, colored 18 ; total 63
Confirmed—colored, 39
Marriages—colored, 19
Burials—white, not of mission, 2; colored 28; total 30
Communicants—added 50 ; restored 3 ; died 2 ; expelled 1;
present number 151
Pupils connected with Mission Schools 330
46
Contributions.
Communion alms
Foreign Missions,
Contributions for special purposes
644,82
.10,00
. 35,00
Total
$89,82
God seems to be pouring out on us the dew of his blessing. We
have what are generally regarded as the surest tokens of the presence
of the Holy Spirit—large increasing congregations—a people hun¬
gering and thirsting for the Word of Life ; many coming forward to
Holy Baptism ; those who appeared to be growing cold returning to
their first love, and a large accession to the number of our communi¬
cants. The terrible gale of September left our Chapel a mass of ru¬
ins, at the very moment it seemed most important, and when appa¬
rently there was the least hope (in consequence of the heavy loss the
planters sustained) of having it speedily rebuilt. But God appears
to have overruled the event for good—we should rather say, sent it
in love and mercy—for the old Chapel occupied a position where it
would necessarily always have remained private property. Now we
have a lot more desirable on every account, which will be secured to
the Church. The event called forth the sympathy and generosity of
those on whom we had no claim. As soon as the loss was known,
the Missionary received an invitation to visit Charleston, with the as¬
surance of aid. He went, and the liberality there extended to his
mission will ever be remembered with the deepest gratitude. Nor
can we pass in silence the beautiful christian spirit exhibited by the
colored communicants of St. Philip's Church. As soon as they heard
of our loss and wants, they voluntarily came forward and asked to be
permitted to add their contribution as a " testimony of their sympa¬
thy with their brethren after the flesh." The Monumental Church,
St. James Church, Richmond, Virginia, also sent their aid. Other
friends then came forward to our help. The Chapel is now under
way, and in a few months will be ready for use, and before another
Convention we hope to have a building consecrated to the service of
Almighty God.
The undersigfced respectfully reports, that since December last he
47
has been exercising Iris Ministry in the City of Savannah. His offi¬
cial acts are included in the Parochial Reports of Christ Church.
JAMES D. GIBSON.
ZION CHURCH—T ALBOTTOISL
W. P. GEHAGAN, RECTOR.
My Parish, though small, is not an unpromising one. I have en¬
lightened, warm-hearted, and zealous Church people to sustain me.—
Outside of the Church are favorable. An unusually large number of
Pews have been rented—the congregation is increasing—the Church
often being crowded in the afternoon. In connection with my labors
here as a Missionary of the Church, I have now in successful opera¬
tion a school for both sexes. The location is deemed a good one,
and we begin under most favorable auspices. We have now in at¬
tendance over sixty pupils. The Bible and Prayer Book are used—
the moral and religious training of the Pupils being in accordance
with the teachings of the Church.
15
30
2-2
.6
.3
.3
The subscriber, still engaged in his duties in the Richmond County
Academy, remains without Parochial charge. He has, however, as
during the previous year, regularly assisted the Rector of St. Paul's
on occasions of administering the Holy Communion, besides rendering
such other services to the Rectors of both Churches as were in his.
power, by officiating or preaching when called on.
REY. JOHN NEELY; '
Augusta, Ga.
Communicants—white.......
Sunday School Pupils—white .,
n » » colored,
„ „ Teachers ,
Baptisms—infants
Candidates for confirmation....
48
ST. PAUL'S CHURCH—ALBANY.
REV. J. H. GEORGE, RECTOR.
Communicants—whites 12, blacks 48—total 60
Baptisms—infants, white 4 ; blacks 22; adults 4 ; total 30
Burials—infants, 1
Marriages—blacks, 6
Sunday School Teachers 4, Pupils 25—total 29
Contributions.
Communion alms $8,50
By patient continuance in well doing, we have through the bless¬
ing of God, a house of worship. The Parish seems to be in a more
prosperous condition. The seats in the Church have all been taken
by interesting families, and the attendance upon divine service is very
good. Several of our most interesting citizens are seriously contem¬
plating confirmation at the visitation of the Bishop. May the Lord
incline their hearts to take up their cross and follow him.
The state of religion is also encouraging among the blacks. Quite
a number are desirous of being confirmed at the visitation of the
Bishop. The Parish in the country has suffered so much from re-
movals and other causes, but few members are left, and they are de¬
sirous of falling back into St. Paul's Parish.
ST. PHILIP'S CHURCH—ATLANTA.
KEV. RICHARD JOHNSON, RECTOR.
Communicants 30
Confirmations 9
Candidates for confirmation 2
Sunday School Pupils 22, Teachers 6, total 28
Baptisms—adults 4, children 12 ; total 1,6
Marriages, 2
Burials—adults 1, children 1 ; total 2
49
Contributions.
Alms.... . $*76,06'
The Rector trusts that the Senior Warden of this Church in Atlan¬
ta, Mr. Richard Peters, will pardon him for recording here, that it
was through his munificence that St. Philip's Church was made in¬
dependent of the Missionary fund. He generously pledged himself
to be responsible for the payment of the Rector's salary for the term
of three years. This pledge has been nobly redeemed ; the salary
has been promptly paid quarterly, in advance.
Such acts of generosity are the property of the Church, and to
conceal them would be to rob her of the influence which they might
exert, in suggesting to others to " go and do likewise."
EMMANUEL CHURCH—ATHENS.
REV. J. H. LINEBAUGH, RECTOR.
Baptisms,
Communicants added by removal 2—present number 2*1
Confirmations 3
Number of ministrations 91
Number of communions 12
Marriages, 1
Burials, 1
Contributions.
Communion offerings $60
Offering to Diocesan Missions 15
Total v
The above is a statement of the statistics of this Church. In ad¬
dition to the above, it may be well to say, that Mr. Ephraim Bay-
nard, a gentleman who owns large possessions upon Edisto Island,
S. C., has given the handsome sum of one thousand dollars to the
Church. One-half of the sum has been invested in a lot—a beauti-'
ful site of four acres, overlooking the town—for a Rectory.-
7
50
NAVAL ACADEMY—ANNAPOLIS.
REV. THEODORE B. BARTON, CHAPLAIN UNITED STATES NAVY.
Since my last report, I have been on duty at the Naval Academy. -
The Chapel has been finished and in use about a year. A handsome
organ, which cost upwards of $800, has been purchased by private
subscription of the officers and students, and a Sunday School estab¬
lished for the children of the several families. There are about
twenty communicants of our Church connected with the Academy V
but as most of these attend also at St. Ames, no separate communion
has been formed. There are daily morning prayers in the Chapel,
and service on Sunday morning and on Sunday afternoon on board
the TJ. S. ship Preble, which is attached to the Academy.
Baptisms „ .5
Funerals 4
Marriage .. .1
CHRIST CHURCH—ST. SIMONS.
REV. E. P. BROWNE, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adult, colored
Confirmations—white ..
8
1'
colored,
Communicants—added 12 ; total
14
65l
Contributions.
Missionary contributions,
Bishop's salary,
$26,00
.25,00
ST. DAVID'S PARISH—GLYNN.
REV. E. P. BROWN, RECTOR.
baptisms—infants, white
colored
Communicants.-........
2'
2
5'
51
Contributions.
"Missionary contributions $10,0®
Bishop's salary 20,00
Religious instruction to the negroes has been continued regularly
during the winter months, upon the plantations in the Parish, and it
is hoped with beneficial results. The attention given is always grati¬
fying, and the work is always new. It is regretted that none are
ready for confirmation; but such is the strength of the bond which
binds the negroes together in their prejudices and worship, it is sel¬
dom an impression can be made, unless it be made upon them in
the mass. Of the white congregation, three are ready for confirma¬
tion, and others, we trust, will be prepared when the opportunity
■shall occur.
Abstract Parochial Report, —Diocese of Georgia.
CHURCHES.
Christ, Savannah
St. Paul's, Augusta
Christ, St. Simon's
Christ, Macon
Trinity, Columbus
Grace, Clarksville
St. John's, Savannah
St. Stephen's, Milledgeville
St. Luke's, Montpelier
St. Andrew's, Darien
. St. David's, Glynn
St. James', Marietta
Emmanuel, Athens
St. Peter's, Rome
St. Philip's, Atlanta
Zion, Talbotton
Advent, Madison
St. Paul's, Albany
Atonement, Augusta
Messiah, St. Mary's
Ascension, Cass county
The Good Shepherd, Cave Spring,
Ogechee Mission
Savannah River Mission
BAPTISMS
J3
90 300 346 160 171 31
COMMUNICANTS.
16
2 <5
231
147
65
111
108
18
140
17
10
15
65
71
27
34
30
15
14
60
22
35
6
11
151
140
1,543
fct)
s
CON TRIBUTION S.
S.Schools
RECTORS.
3"
5"
I"!
|'J
3 §;
§'»
S'tS*
g s
9
p
S s
i §
O
IP
0
O
H3
>
t-"
3.503,80
948,58
26,00
604.93
1,078,05
a
14
10
|
58
43
*4
16
19
.4
9
1
694,00
253,00
26,00
182,26
95,0n
10.0C
64,Of.
5,00
.49,60
"82,00
102,00
724,80
360,42
"79,13
446,05
2,060,00
221,50
261,55
267,00
115
.110
Rt. Rev. S. Elliott, D. D.
E. E. Ford, D. D.
E. P. Brown,
II. K. Rees,
W. Dickenson Dalsell,
Mr. Pmkerton, officiating.
G. H. Cleark,
G. Macauly,
S. G. Bragg,
14
21
91
100
168,00
262,00
50,Of
25,Of
139,00
250,43
2,754,45
3,455,88
25,00
132,00
19
97
132,00
10,00
10,00
40,00
15,00
70,00
20,00
208,00
30,00
318,00
75,00
E. P. Brown.
B. E. Habersham.
J. H. Linebaugh.
8
52
60,00
76,00
76,00
6
6
22
52
Richard Johnson.
W. P. Gehagan.
W. J. Perdue.
J. H. George.
W. H. llarison.
1
10
i
30
25
50,00
111.79
8,50
111,79
4
5
25
35
192,00
50,00
50,00
50,6O
50.00
89,82
10,00
44,82
35,00
330
175
1204
W. C, Williams.
S. W. Keunerly.
.223
1,677,25
317,00
579,66
2,208,00
6,019,48
10,683,35
107
Dr. James Camak, Treas'r. in Acc't with Diocese of Georgia, Cr.
1854
May 23
30
Aug. 24
26
Dec. 1.
1855
Feb 26
May 8
Ap. 13
23
MaylO
10
To Cash ree'ed from St. Andrews, Darien, 25,00
„ „ „ Christ's Church, St.Simons, .17,00
„ „ Trinity Church, Columbus,. .250,00
„ „ „ Church of the Atonement,
Augusia 25,00
„ } „ Christ's Church, Macon, 600,00
Christ's Church, Savannah, ...500,00
„ „ 500.00
St. Paul's Church, Augusta,.500,00
St. Joho's Church,Savannah, 250,00
St. James' Church, Marietta,...25,00
Ogechee Mission, for 2 y'rs....20,00
(By Cash paid on Bishop's Salary, 625,00
625,00
625,00
625,00
Cash on hand,. ... 212,00
-$2,712,00}
-$2,712,00
July 1854. Received from Church of the Atonement, Augusta,. ...15,00 July 1854. By Cash paid W. T. Williams, (on account)
15,06
Dr.
Missionary Committee Diocese of Georgia in Account with J. S. Sutton, Treas.
Cr.
Cash in bands
ahagan, No.l, 235,OOi
lieorge Macauley, 2 90,OOi
W. H. Harison, 3 125,00'
B. P. Mower, 4 89,00'
J. H. Linebaugh, 5 225,00'
E. P. Brown...... 6 70,00'
James D. Gibson, 7 125,00,
• Richard Johnson, 8 85,00,
of Treasurer,................ .... 52,79<
By Cash on hand last Report, 148,14
from Trinity Church, Columbus, 95,00
Christ's Church, Savannah, 100,00
St. John's Church, Savannah, 202,10
Christ Church, Macon, 182,25
St. Paul's Church, Augusta, 235,30
St. Luke's Church, Montpelier, 42,00
St. James' Church, Marietta, 40,00
Grace Church, Clarksville, 19,00
St. Stephen's Church, Milledgeville, 13,00
Emmanuel Church, Athens, 15,00
Ogechee Mission, 5,00
$1,096,79
1855.
^May 1. By Cash on hand, 52,79
11. By Cash received from Christ Church, Savannah, since closing report,...58,00
1,096,79? Cash on hand, 110,79
List of Missionaries, with their Salaries, and balances due.
Rev. W. P. Gahagan, Talbotton, .....300,00
Rev. George Macauley, Milledgeville, 100,00
Rev. W. J. Perdue, Madison, 250,00
Rev. W. H. Harison, Augusta, 200,00
B. F. Mower, late of Clarksville,
J. H. Linebaugh, Athens, ...200,00
E. P. Brown, St. Simon's, 80,00
Balance due on 1st January 1855, 110,00
„ 35,00
„ 20,83
„ 75,00
„ 78,50
„ 55,00
„ 30,00
1,130,00 404,33
The Missions at Clarksville, St. Mary's, Rome, Griffin, LaGrange, and Etowah Factory, are vacant.
Macon, May 10, 1855. J. S. HUTTON, Treas.
CONSTITUTION
OF THE
Ijrfltefattf Cjrartjj
IN THE
DIOCESE OF GEORGIA.
article I. The Church of this Diocese, as a constituent part of
the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America, ac¬
cedes to, recognizes and adopts, the general constitution of that Church >
and acknowledges its authority accordingly.
art. II. A convention of this church shall be held at such time
of each year and place as the previous convention may appoint, pro¬
vided,- however, that no convention shall be opened for the transac¬
tion of business unless there be present at least two clergymen, and
delegates from two congregations. And in case no convention be
formed, the standing officers of the last convention shall hold their
respective offices until successors shall be appointed.
art. III. The Bishop, or, if the Episcopate be vacant, the Stand¬
ing Committee, shall have power, when it appears requisite for the
good of the Church, to call a Special Convention, by circular letter
to the several churches. There shall not be less than four weeks no¬
tice previous to the day appointed, and such meeting shall be holdeu
When the authority calling it shall determine, and at such Special'
Convention no other business shall be transacted than that stated in
•the notice calling the Convention.
Art. IV. The Convention shall be composed of clergymen and
laymen. Every clergyman in good standing, regularly settled, and
continuously exercising clerical functions in any existing Parish or
who shall have been for six months last past performing missionary
duties under the direction of the ecclesiastical authority of this Dio¬
cese, shall be entitled to the privileges of a member of this Conven-
56
tion ; and every duly recognized Minister of this Church canoni-
cally resident for six months last past within the Diocese, being en¬
gaged in the business of literary instruction, or disabled by reason of
age or infirmity from exercising clerical functions, shall be entitled to'
all the privileges of a member of the Convention, with the exception
of a right to vote. Each church or congregation in union with this
Convention shall be entitled to a representation by one Lay Delegate
or more, not exceeding three, to be chosen from its own body, by
the Wardens and Vestrymen thereof; provided, however, that the
Minister, or, in his absence, the Delegate or Delegates present at any
Convention, may supply any vacancy in the Delegation, if he or they
should find, at the place of meeting, a member of members of the
congregation which they are empowered to represent.
Art. V. New Parishes may be admittd into union with this
Convention by a majority of votes ; provided, that they shall have
laid before the Convention written evidence, subscribed by the War¬
dens, that they accede to the Constitution and Canons of this Church,
and are regularly organized by the election of two Wardens and any
number of Vestrymen at discretion, not exceeding eight.
Art. VI. Every meeting of the Convention shall be opened with
Morning Prayer, and a sermon, delivered on the first day of the
Convention, by a Preacher appointed at the preceding Convention.
A Sermon on Missions shall also be preached some time during the
sitting of each Convention, when a collection shall be made in aid of
Missions within the Diocese. The appointment of both Preachers'
with substitutes, shall be made by the Bishop, or, in his absence by
the President of the Convention.
Art. VII. The Convention shall deliberate and act as one body,
unless when any member shall call for a division on any question, in
which case each clerical member shall be entitled to one vote, and
the lay delegates of each congregation jointly■ to one vote ; and a
majority of both orders shall be necessary to a decision.
Art. VIII. The Bishop of the Diocese shall be ex-ojficio Presi¬
dent of the Convention. In case there be no Bishop, or, in his ab¬
sence, a presiding officer shall be elected from among the clerical
members present.
Art. IX. At each annual meeting of the Convention, a Secretary
and Treasurer shall be chosen, to hold their respective offices until
the next annual Covention, or until successors shall be appointed. ■"
57
It shall be the duty of the Treasure? to receive, or cause to be re¬
ceived at each annual Convention the assessments upon the Parishes
of the Diocese for defraying the incidental expenses of the Conven¬
tion and the support of the Episcopate ; and also to pay the Bishop
quarterly, in advance, the amount of salary pledged to him by this
Convention, making a faithful return of all these his acts in his an¬
nual report to the Convention of this Church.
Art. X. A Standing Committee shall be chosen at each annual
meeting of this Convention, to consist of three clerical and three lay
members ; of the time and place of whose meetings due notice in
writing shall be given to all the members thereof, at least one week
before the time of such meeting. At a meeting thus notified, any
four members shall constitute a quorum. The Standing Committee
shall meet as soon as practicable after their election, and choose a
President and Secretary from among their own number, and it shall
be the duty of the President to call a meeting of the committee
whenever he shall be required to do so by any three members of the
committee. Vacancies in this committee caused by death, resigna¬
tion, or otherwise, shall be supplied by the suffrages of the remain¬
ing members.
Art. XI. The Convention shall annually elect four clergymen
and four laymen as deputies to the General Convention, and to any
special General convention which may be held in the recess of this
Convention, who shall be empowered, in the absence of one or more
of their colleagues, to appoint, in the place of such delegate or dele¬
gates, any citizen or citizens of this State; provided, that such citi¬
zen or Citizens be a member or members of the Protestant Episcopal
Church'in this Diocese ; or, if it be inconvenient for any delegate or
delegates to proceed to the place of meeting, the Bishop is author¬
ized to appoint others in their place. In case of a vacancy in the
Episcopate, the power hereby conferred on the Bishop shall be exer¬
cised by the Standing Committee.
Art. XII. A proposition for altering and amending this Consti¬
tution shall be introduced in writing, and considered in Convention,
and if approved by a majority, shall lie over to the next Convention
when upon consideration again, if it be approved by a majority of
the Convention, it shall be adopted.
Art. XIII. In all elections by ballot, a majority of votes shall be '
required for a choice.
8
CANONS.
Canon I. Each Church duly represented in the Convention shall
pay, or cause to be paid into the hands of the Treasurer of the
Convention the sum of 20 cents for each white communicant annu¬
ally, for defraying the incidental expenses of the Convention.
Canon II. In case any clergyman of this Diocese shall be ac¬
cused of error in doctrine, immorality of life, neglect, or transgres¬
sion of any of the canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the
United States, or this Diocese, it shall be the duty of any two or more
clergymen, or of the wardens and vestrymen of the Church of which
he is Rector, or to which he may belong, who shall have knowledge
or belief of such misdemeanor, to represent the same to the Bishopj
or, in case there be no Bishop to the Standing Committee of the Dio"
cese. In the event of such representation, it shall be the duty of the
Bishop, or, if there be no Bishop to the Standing Committee, if he or
they shall deem the charge or charges worthy of investigation forth¬
with to notify the accused of such charges, together with the time
and place appointed for trial. The mode of trial shall be as follows
The Bishop, or Standing Committee, as the case may be, shall appoint
a number of Presbyters, not less than five, of whom the person, ac¬
cused may select a majority, by whom to be tried. The result of' the
trial shall be made known to the Bishop, or if there be no Bishop, to
the Standing Committee, who shall pronounce and execute or cause
to be pronounced and executed, such sentence as may be awarded,
should the same by him or them be deemed just and proper.
Should the sentence be suspension or degradation from the Minis¬
try, the Bishop or Provisional Bishop, or should there be none, some
neighboring.Bishop, shall be required to pronounce the same.
Should it be impossible to obtain from the Diocese the requisite
number of Presbyters to constitute a board of trial, the deficiency
may be supplied from a neighboring Diocese.
59
Should 'any clergyman, accused and cited for trial according to'tta
"provisions of this canon, neglect or refuse to obey the citation, sue!
■ neglect or refusal shall be considered as an acknowledgement of th<
truth of the charges preferred against him, and sentence shall be pro
nounced accordingly.
Canon III. The Convention shall appoint annually, by ballot, a
committee of two clergymen and three laymen., of which committee
the Bishop of the Diocese, when there is one, shall be ex officio chair"
man ; whose duty it shall be to take in charge the Missionary, Bible'
Common Prayer Book, Tract and Sunday School operations of the
Church in this Diocese *, and it shall be further the duty of this com¬
mittee to make a full report of all their proceedings to each succeed¬
ing annual Convention.
Can on IV. It shall be the duty of the Vestry of each church in
connection with this Diocese to pay, or cause to be paid, into the
hands of the Treasurer of the Convention, at each annual meeting of
the Convention, the amount of the assessment laid upon the churches
respectively represented by them for the support of the Episcopate of
this Diocese.
Canon V. Section 1. Whenever any number of persons shall
associate to form an Episcopal congregation, they shall adopt articles
of association for their government, in which they shall acknowledge
and accede to the constitution, canons, doctrines, discipline and wor"
ship of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States, and
the constitution and canons of the Diocese of Georgia ; they shall
assume a suitable name by which their Church or Parish shall be
designated, and elect two Wardens, and any number of Vestrymen,
at discretion, not exceeding eight. A certified copy of the articles of
association and of the proceedings at their adoption, signed by the
Wardens, shall then be laid before the Convention, and if approved
by that body, delegates from such congregation or Parish may take
seats in the Convention, and the congregation shall be considered
as united to the Convention, and subject to its decisions.
Section 2. The election of Wardens and Vestrymen in every Par.
'ish thus constituted, shall take place annually on Easter Monday, un¬
less some other time be specified in the act of incorporation, with the
assent of the ecclesiastical authority of the Diocese,
RULES OF ORDER.
Rule 1. The business of each day shall be introduced by the
Order for Daily Morning Prayer and a Sermon.
Rule 2. When the President takes the chair, no member shall
continue standing, or shall stand up, unless to address the chair.
Rule 3. The order of doing business in the Convention shall be
as follows:
1. The appointment of a Secretary by ballot.
2. The appointment of the Committees of the Convention, and
Special Committees.
3. The Annual Address of the Bishop.
4. The reading of the Parochial Reports.
5. Reports from the Committees of the Diocese.
6. Reports from the Treasurers.
7. Reports from Committees appointed at the last Convention.
8. Reports from Committees.
9. Elections by ballot, of Treasurers, Standing Committee of the
Diocese, Diocesan Missionary Committee, and Deputies
to the General Convention.
Rule 4. When any member is about to speak in debate, or pre¬
sent any matter to the Convention, he shall, with due respect ad¬
dress himself to the President, confining himself strictly to the point
in debate.
Rule 5. No member shall absent himself from the service of the
Convention unless he have leave, or be unable to attend.
Rule 6. No member shall speak more than twice in the same
debate, without leave of the Convention.
Rule 7. A question, being once determined, shall stand as the
judgement of the Convention, and shall not be drawn into debate the
same session, unless with the consent of two-thirds of the Conven¬
tion : provided, always, that any member of the Convention voting
in favor of any question, may, on the same day in which the vote is
taken, or on the succeeding day, move a reconsideration of said vote
61
Rule 8. No motion shall be debated or shall be considered as
before the Convention, unless seconded, reduced to writing, and read
by the Secretary.
Rule 9. When a motion is under consideration, no other motion
shall be made, except to amend, to divide, to commit, or to post¬
pone; amotion to adjourn, however, shall always be in order, and
shall be decided without debate.
Rule 10. A question on amendment shall be decided before the
original motion.
Rule 11. Every member who shall be present when the question
is put, shall vote, unless personally interested, or excused by the
-Convention from voting.
Rule 12. When the Convention is about to rise, or adjourn,
every member shall keep his seat until the President shall leave the
chair.
STANDING RESOLUTIONS.
<for JTrootbtng a permanent funb for t§e Support of tlje
Episcopate,
ADOPTED 1841.
Resolved, That as it is important that the formation of a perma¬
nent fund for the support of the Episcopate in this Diocese be at
once commenced, each Rector of a Parish is requested annually to
call the attention of his parishioners to the subject, and invite contri¬
butions for the object, in such mode as he may deem most expedi¬
ent. That the Standing Committee of the Diocese be trustees of
this fund, to whom all the collections are to be paid over by the re¬
spective Rectors, and the amount thus paid over be invested by the
said trustees in what may appear to them the most safe and profita¬
ble manner; the interest annually received to be added to the prin¬
cipal, so that for the present the fund may be accumulating. And
farther,
ftesolved\ That the Standing Committee^ as trustees aforesaid* be
62
requested to report to each annual Convention the amount received
during the year, the sources from which received, and the manner in
which the same is invested.
#f % Ihittnijaftra of fto
ADOPTED 1842.
Resolved, That in the organization of new Parishes, the following
form of declaration be recommended, and the meeting in which it is
adopted -be held and conducted according to-the provisions of Can¬
on V:
" We, the subscribers, assembled for the purpose of organizing a
Church (or Parish) of the Protestant Episcopal Church in
county of -and State of Georgia, after due notice given, do
hereby agree to form a Church, (or Parish) to be know by the
name of Church; and as such, do hereby acknowledge and ac¬
cede to the doctrine, discipline and worship, the constitution and can¬
ons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of Ameri¬
ca, and the constitution and canons of the same Church in the Diocese
of Georgia; and we do accordingly appoint A B and C D to be the first
Wardens, E F, G H, I J to be the first Vestrymen of
Church, to continue in Office until Easter Monday, A, D, and
until others be chosen in their place. And an election of Wardens
and Vestrymen shall hereafter be held on Easter Monday of each
successive year.
"Witness our hands at county of , and State of
Georgia, this —— day of , in the year of our Lord
#11 % itst of Cjrartjjts,
ADOPTED 184fe.
On motion, it was unanimously Resolved, That it be recommended
to the Vestries of our Churches in this Diocese to discourage the use
63
of the Churches under their care for all "unhallowed, worldly and
common uses."
THE STYLE AND TITLE OF CHURCHES.
The proper style for a duly incorporated congregation is, "The
Rector, Church Wardens and Vestry (or else the Church Wardens
and Yestry) of Church in ," the first blank being left
for the name of the Church, the other for that of the place.
FORM OF A CERTIFICATE.
This certifies, that at a meeting of the Rector, Wardens and Yes-
try, (or Wardens and Yestry, if no Rector were present) of ,
held on the day of , the following person, (or per¬
sons, as the case may be,) viz: K L, M N, and 0 P were duly
elected to represent this Church in the next Convention of the Dio¬
cese, to be held in on the day of , IS—.
The above certificate shall be signed by the Rector, if present, or
in his absence, by one of the Wardens, or by the Secretary of the"
Yestry.
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RIGHT REV. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR., J). ]).,
BISHOP OF THE DIOCI-SE OF GEORGIA.
Post Office— S-1 van no h.
REV. EDWARD E. FORD, D. D„ AUGUSTA.
PRESIDENT OF THE STANDING COMMITI EE.
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REV. HENRY K. REES, MACON,
SECRETARY OF THE CONVENTION.
D11. JAMES CAMAIv, ATHENS,
TREASURE li OF IIIE DIOCESE.
MR. J. S. HUTTON, MACON,
TREASURER OF I HE MISSIONARY COMMITTEE
The next Convention of llie Clmrch will In- held in St. James'
Church, Marietta, commencing 0n Thursday after the first Monday
in May 185G.
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